Topic

Mosque & Jumu'ah

Visiting a mosque, Friday prayer, mosque etiquette and finding a place to pray. Short, honest answers for new Muslims.

Can a woman give the adhan?

A woman doesn't give the public adhan for men in the four schools, but views differ on adhan and iqamah among women. A clear, neutral guide.

If your child doesn't want to go to the mosque, don't force it. Find the reason and make visits fun; young kids aren't obliged to go at all.

The imam holds a staff during the khutbah because the Prophet leaned on a staff or bow. Most schools call it sunnah; the Hanafi school differs.

No, kids don't have to attend Jumu'ah; it becomes obligatory for boys at puberty. Bringing children earlier builds a habit that lasts.

Shaking hands is sunnah, but shaking hands right after every prayer isn't a specific sunnah. What scholars say and how to respond politely.

Yes, you can breastfeed in the mosque. Stay covered, use the women's area or a mothers' room, and keep milk off the prayer carpet.

Yes, you can pray alone between pillars in a mosque. In congregation, avoid rows between pillars unless it's crowded. What the schools say.

Yes, you can usually charge your phone at the mosque if it's allowed. It runs on donations, so ask first, keep it small and give back.

Cleaning the mosque is a beloved good deed: the Prophet honoured the woman who swept his mosque. What the Sunnah says and simple ways to help.

Can mosques in the West call the adhan aloud? It depends on local law. Where outdoor adhans are allowed in the USA and Europe, and why it's fine.

Yes, Hagia Sophia in Istanbul has been a mosque again since July 2020. Its history as cathedral, mosque and museum, and why the change was debated.

At a mosque iftar, people break the fast with dates and water at the Maghrib adhan, pray, then share a free meal. What to expect and tips.